Opening Phrases

Introductory phrases to use when you start your talk

I’m going to talk about……

OK, I’m going to describe….

Well, I’d like to talk about….

The first point:

The first thing I’d like to mention is …..

I’d like to begin by highlighting that …..

The most important point about [ rephrase the question] is ….

In terms of [rephrase the question] I would like to mention ….

The second point:

Going on to [rephrase question], and what I’d like to highlight here is that …..

Now concerning the matter of [rephrase question], what I would like to mention here is that ….

The third point

Progressing to the subject of [rephrase question]. I would like to explain that …

Moving onto the question regarding [rephrase question], what I would like to make clear is that ….

The last point

Finally, I’d like to discuss [rephrase question]

Finally then, if there is still enough time, I would also like to mention that ….

Phrases for adding details:

At that time …

It happened …

It took place …

It’s been going on since …

It’s near …

Phrases to describe something that had an effect on you

… influenced me

… had an effect on me

… impressed me

… motivated me

… touched me deeply

Below are some examples using the above phrases

The first point:

"The first thing I’d like to mention is the significance of cultural diversity in educational settings."

"I’d like to begin by highlighting that effective time management is crucial for academic success."

"The most important point about climate change is its potential long-term consequences."

The second point:

"Going on to the topic of renewable energy, what I’d like to highlight here is its role in mitigating environmental degradation."

"Now concerning the matter of social inequality, what I would like to mention here is the need for proactive measures to address it."

The third point:

"Progressing to the subject of mental health awareness, I would like to explain that destigmatization efforts are essential."

"Moving onto the question regarding sustainable urban development, what I would like to make clear is the importance of community involvement."

The last point:

"Finally, I’d like to discuss the impact of globalization on local economies."

"Finally then, if there is still enough time, I would also like to mention that enhancing cross-cultural understanding is crucial in today's interconnected world."

Phrases for adding details:

"At that time, I was studying abroad in Japan."

"It happened during my internship at a multinational corporation."

"It took place last month in New York City."

"It’s been going on since my childhood, shaping my worldview."

"It’s near the university campus, making it convenient for students to access."

Phrases to describe something that had an effect on you:

"The documentary on climate change profoundly influenced me."

"Volunteering at the local soup kitchen had a significant effect on me."

"His perseverance in the face of adversity deeply impressed me."

"Her words of encouragement motivated me to pursue my dreams."

"The plight of refugees touched me deeply."

In the next lesson, we’ll look at strategies for Task 2